Glossary of computational terminology
An explanation of common terminology used in computational design grouped them into six taxonomies including algorithms and natural systems.
20/06/2018
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Computational Design
Computational design is not merely a tool, but an instrument which allows us to see things differently. It offers a way to generate, rationalise and analyse multiple design options, quickly and iteratively.
Generative design
Specific building typologies are inherently parametric. Parametric Monkey can help identify critical parameters within the design and create project-specific scripts to automate the design, saving you from laborious manual modelling.
Network analysis
Understanding the relationship between an element and its context is critical to successful planning. Whether it is fire egress distances, the shortest path through a masterplan or simulating crowd movement, Parametric Monkey can help your team understand the impact design decisions have on the overall network.
Solar access
Parametric Monkey has a detailed understanding of the NSW's 'State Environmental Planning Policy 65 - Design Quality of Residential Flat Development' (SEPP 65) solar access requirement. We can help you run the simulation, push results to the BIM model, and produce the Design Verification Statement for Development Applications (DAs).
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Geometric rationalisation
Sometimes certain parts of the design require a higher level of geometric definition for it to be fabricated and assembled. Parametric Monkey can embed material properties and assembly constraints directly into the parametric model ready for file-to-factory fabrication.
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Form-finding
Understanding material and structural properties are essential in finding an appropriate form. Parametric Monkey works with your team to optimise these properties through physics-based simulations.**
View analysis
View aspects are critical to both the feasibility of a project and also in gaining development approval. Parametric Monkey has developed a suite of tools to quantify views including; 2D and 3D isovist analysis, viewshed analysis, and heat map analysis.
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Programmatic analysis
Ensuring the programmatic brief is met is a fundamental requirement of any architectural services. Specific building typologies, such as universities or hospitals, require a detailed understanding of the building program and schedule of accommodation. Parametric Monkey works with your team to visualise these requirements to aid the design team.
GIS
Geographic Information Systems (GIS) allow us to visualise, question, analyse and interpret spatial or geographical data to understand relationships, patterns, and trends. Parametric Monkey has extensive experience in integrating large datasets such as city models or cadastre information so that they can be used efficiently in the design process.
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Machine learning
Whereas most scripting involves writing an algorithm to tell the computer explicitly what to do, Machine Learning (ML) can automatically extract the algorithm through learning. Parametric Monkey works with you to compile a dataset from which the machine will learn. Through this process, it is possible to unearth patterns and generate new designs based on these learnt patterns.
Overshadowing
As the building industry moves towards performative design, planning authorities are now requiring more and more detailed analyses, especially around overshadowing. Parametric Monkey can assist in both simulating and quantifying the amount of overshadowing of both your building and the existing context.
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Daylight autonomy
Daylight autonomy represents the percentage of annual daytime hours that a given point in space is above a specified illumination level. These studies are useful when direct sunlight cannot be achieved. Parametric Monkey can help your design team run preliminary analyses to understand the effect materials and colours have on lux levels.**
Stadia
Parametric Monkey has developed a suite of digital design tools to automate the generation of seating bowls based on specific parameters such as C-values to test critical metrics such as sightlines and distance from the pitch.
A brief history of computation
A brief history of computation in architectural design over 5 eras: 2D drafting, 3D modelling, BIM, computational design & machine learning.
08/06/2018
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* Denotes work completed by Paul Wintour at this office.
** This is not a substitute for professional engineering services, but rather a tool to aid the initial design process.
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